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Post by lazy penguin on Aug 18, 2021 13:19:39 GMT -5
sylvie maurriette
After finishing her morning watch, Sylvie made her way through the open hallways of the fort, her heels echoing on the stone floors. She had set out today with a mission- a training session with one of the more concerning new riders. Sure Lok and Silas might not share her doubts, but she hardly cared what those children thought. They were young and naΓ―ve, still licking their wounds and wondering how they got betrayed in the first place.
Okay maybe that was a bit harsh, but she had long since abandoned her faith in fate. Even if it seemed like things were going to work out, she needed to make sure there were no hiccups.
Reaching the barracks, she peaked her head through the door, only to be disappointed when the face she was looking for was missing. Tallis, she called out once again to her dragon, Have you seen Calypso or Fenrir today?
Last I saw them they were outside- southwest corner. Why?
I'm trying to do personal training sessions, I figured they'd be a good pair to start with.
Tallis's lack of response let her know that they knew there was more to it. It was hard to keep secrets from her dragon- not only because of their bond, but because they seemed to be infuriatingly good at reading people. Nevertheless, they'd provided her with good information, and as she headed outside she saw two shapes in the distance.
"Miss Renfrey!" She called, jogging up to the dragon and rider. "What a lovely day to be outside." She tried to mask the narrowing of her eyes with a smile- the rider didn't need to know she was questioning her loyalties. Sylvie needed her to feel welcomed, to feel happy around the other riders, and she was more than up to the task of creating that feeling artificially. "I was thinking we could get some training in while the sun is still cool. Would you and Fenrir be up for some combat practice?"
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ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
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Post by ββΠΎΟ on Aug 18, 2021 17:17:24 GMT -5
  
LETO
Letoβs first task of the day was an impossible one. She stood with one arm folded over her chest and her chin propped against her other palm, surveying the scene before her. It involved a bed of wild flowers, an old oak tree, and a sleeping dragon.
βAughan,β she began in full voice. She knew it would be futile, but there was no harm in trying. As expected, the dragon did not stir. His massive sides continued rising and falling in the same slow rhythm, not even cracked eyelid. He could have been easily mistaken for a pile of boulders by an innocent passerby. His scales were the color of sand, and his soul blended into the earth just as easily. His young rider, by contrast, was not content with sleeping the day away. She would not allow birds to poop on her head and the ivy to grow over her limbs. She wanted to train.
Plan B involved marching over to his massive head and crouching in front of it. She knocked on the top of his noggin impatiently. His hide was so thick that she could probably dance a jig on top of him and he would continue snoozing. And prodding him through telepathy was no use either. He told her once that he often dreamed of her, so her voice did little to remind him of the real world.
She opted for planting her hands on his ivory tusks and pulling with all her might. βAughaaaan!β
He woke with a jolt. His reptilian amber eyes flew open, and his enormous frame shuddered. Leto was nearly flung to the ground as he lifted his head.
What is it, little one? He asked, bewildered. His voice was gravelly in her brain, like the sound of falling rocks.
βWeβll miss training, lazy bones,β she said aloud. Her sharp features screwed into an expression of hyperbolic annoyance. Then she turned with a swish of her hair. βCβmon!β
They were about a hundred yards from the fortress walls, where Leto knew the other dragon riders were beginning their day. It was typical for Aughan to sleep out in the forest where he could hear the crickets and the robins. The practice got them both in trouble at first, because it was safer for everyone in the old fort, but exceptions could be made for Aughan. What creature could possibly pose a threat to him? Arrows simply bounced off his thick hide, and blades could scarcely hurt him either.
As Leto trudged up the path to the training ground, she eventually felt the ground tremble beneath her feet. She did not have to look to know Aughan followed drowsily. When she entered the clearing, her suspicions were confirmed. Several of her fellow riders were gathered in a circle. She identified Hollis, Saena, Alexiares, and Astraxares chatting excitedly amongst themselves.
βWhich one of you is getting whooped first today?β she questioned teasingly. She liked to think she won any competition she entered, and dragon training inevitably evolved into a competition on a daily basis. But in reality she won and lost as frequently as anyone else.
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Post by Hushabye on Aug 18, 2021 19:27:51 GMT -5
[ This post was brought to you by ~My Cold Bones~ I need to drink tea after this...
Also: Lok and the twins are related.
Their entire family is weird; it's normal for them to finish sentences, understand simple gestures, say or do something at the same time, etc
Lok has actually been planning this game since in-game-yesterday because I started thinking it up right after I made his character. I was half-asleep, so I don't remember all the details OML I'm going to wing it and partly use quidditch scoring or something? Though I think Lok might also canonically make up things as he goes along because that's his style- ]
<><><><>
-- Alexiares & Astraxares Diaviore + Vortigern + Anavlok Stainawarik
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Alexiares' features twisted into a scowl. How dare that drudge presume to antagonize him? He's even wearing a stupid smirk, as if he'd actually said something clever. What's worse, Astra and Anavlok are grinning as well, though the latter looks more as if he's scheming and his brother just offers a dramatic gasp solely to irritate him further.
Antagonize you? I'd say he succeeded.
He has not and he will not.
"I'd expect no better from you." Alex returns with a derisive scoff. "Anyone who looks forward to an 'easy win' has learned nothing and will continue to stagnate. Vortigern-"
Sensing that he intends to storm off, Anavlok finally breaks from his ominous grinning and lifts an arm to stay the rider. He's long since learned not to physically attempt to stop him, as his magic is reactionary and especially volatile. Even now, a faint icy breeze stirs his hair and tugs at the tails of his coat.
Vortigern is his saving grace, as the dragon ducks under Alex's sweeping arm with an amused cant of his head. 'This would be a good opportunity to practice defensive flying.'
The young rider pauses, eyes narrowing as two more figures approach. "You've attracted more flies." He mutters, but gives them both a sharp nod before facing Anavlok with crossed arms. "Hurry it up. The more successful of us actually have a schedule to keep." Astraxares gives him a patronizing pat on the shoulder while Anavlok greets the two women warmly.
"Good morning! It's so good to see new faces on the training grounds~ You four are more than welcome to join us~ In fact, you're just what we need to complete the teams~!"
Alex jolts. "Teams? Navi stop smiling like that. I'm not-"
The Knight's pale eyes fairly sparkle. "Teams~ Aaand it just so happens that I decided the first two riders that I see will be partners for the game~"
"We don't need a partner! I have Vort-"
Do you really~?
Anavlok claps his hands. "And now you have Hollis! Play nice!"
Alexiares opens his mouth to object further but the Knight speaks over him. "The 'ball' in Dragon Ball will be my intermittent foci. Astra, if you would be so kind?"
Astraxares has mastered the art of leaning in a way that appears casual to belie his fatigue. The other Diaviore are aware of this, so when their gazes jump to the pale man resting against Vortigern's flank, the younger twin steps forward with a grunt that might have been a swear and stalks past to take on the task instead. Astra lightly taps his brother's wrist in gratitude, though his previously amused expression has gone blank.
Anavlok turns back to the gathered riders with a conspiratory smile, having successfully distracted Alex from his ire.
"Now, as I said, the 'ball' will be my intermittent foci. It is a spherical object enchanted to fluctuate between intense heat and severe cold. This magic will ensure that no one rider can hold the ball for long. You cannot use magic, so you must pass it back and forth between your teammate as you approach the opposing team's goal. I will ensure that there's a set time for the changes, and that it doesn't reach temperatures that will permanently harm you, however!"
He sweeps a hand toward Astraxares. "Astra will be my assistant 'coach' or referee to ensure that our game will progress as smoothly as possible."
Astra straightens so that he can give a sweeping bow. "Pleased to be of service~ We'll each be attending a goal-"
"-trees that have been marked with ribbons for this very purpose." Anavlok completes the rhyme, idly rubbing at the bandages he'd earned from climbing trees the day prior. "I'd like for there to be no explicit violence but you can use whatever else is necessary to steal the foci. I'd say the safest way is to catch it in mid-air. I already have a fair-sized clearing marked out, though there is still a limit to how high you can fly. Any questions~?"
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Post by πΎππππππππ on Aug 18, 2021 19:57:10 GMT -5
  
TRYS
Trys woke most days safely encased within the great span of a dragonβs wings. Although she often went to sleep in her own bed, at some point in the night sheβd crawl from beneath her covers and seek comfort in the safety of her life-long companion, her bonded dragon Shio. Heβd rumble and grumble at her, but he always opened his wings to wrap Trys in a safe, secure cocoon β where nothing could hurt her. Her entire world had been upheaved in such a short time, and while Trys had landed on her feet, there were days were even her foundations quivered. Not this morning, however. When her eyes flickered open, blinking in the soft light of the sun filtering through the window, she was still wrapped in her blanket, sprawled atop the small bed that had been designated to her upon her arrival and bonding. The other half of the room, which served as a nest for her dragon companion, was noticeably empty. The mass of pillows and soft things that Shio had demanded looked ruffled, like the dragon had been there not too long ago. She had the distinct memory of the great beast being in the room when she drifted off. Shio had, of course, requested she sing him a lullaby. Ever since heβd discovered she could both play the fiddle with a masterβs hand, and sing, heβd taken to prodding her at every opportunity to grace him with her music. As she threw the covers away from her and rolled into a sitting position, she reached for the bond that pulsed within her like a second heartbeat. And there was Shioβs presence, humming like music inside her soul. Shio?The dragon answered her without words β a soft, gentle rumble within her mind acknowledging her question. Where did you run off to?
I thought Iβd give the dawn a proper greeting today. She rolled her eyes. I saw that.Hardly. Weβre not supposed to leave the compound, anyway. How did you sneak out?There was an indignant huff on Shioβs half of the bond. Donβt insult me. Besides, Iβll not be anchored by any but you any time soon. Sylvie and her cohorts know that well.Trys sighed. Although Shio had a gentle heart, and he was generally peaceful, he wasnβt much for authority. He tended to ignore any order directed his way. He was really only willing to comply with Trys, mostly because she saw him as her equal. They were partners, with neither one's word greater or more weighted than the others.
Iβm going to head to the training arena.
Very well. I shall meet you there. With that, she felt Shio withdraw from the bond. It was still there, humming with life, but it was clear that Shioβs attention had turned elsewhere. She huffed to herself, and began to hum and sing a soft song under her breath. It was an old piece sheβd heard in Phose as a child, but it had somehow stuck with her.
βCruel and cold,
Like winds on the sea.
Will you ever
Return to me?
Hear my voice,
Sing with the tide.
My love will never die.
Over waves and deep in the blue,
I will give up my heart for you.
Ten long years, Iβll wait to go by.
My love will never die.
Come, my love, be one with the sea
Rule with me for eternity
Drown all dreams so mercilessly
And leave their souls to me.
Play the song you sang long ago
And wherever the storm may blow
You will find the key to my heart
Weβll never be apart.
Wild and strong, you canβt be contained.
Never bound nor ever chained.
Wounds you caused with never mend.
And you will never end.
Cruel and cold,
Like winds on the sea.
Will you ever
Return to me?
Hear my voice,
Sing with the tide.
Our love will never die.β
I like that one, Shio said, and it was then that Trys realized sheβd been sending the song down the bond as well. Remember to sing to me another time. Play that strange device of yours as well.
As you wish. I will see you soon.
Dressed in her combat leathers, Trys went to leave her room. She opened the door β and was promptly nearly flattened by a dragon rushing through the halls. She blinked, and realized it was Gherkin, the dragon bonded to Peren. The human half of the pair was close behind. She smiled at him as she stepped out of her room and closed the door behind her. βGood morning,β she greeted. She glanced at Gherkin, who was waiting a short distance down the hall. βSomeone is certainly excited this morning. I should remember that being bowled over by a dragon is a real hazard here.β She turned back to Peren. βI was just heading to the training area. Would you like to join me?β
Several of the others are there. Scoria, Aughan, Vortigern and Ilaria. And their riders, of course.βShio says several of the others are already there. Iβm headed that way.β She offered him one more smile, and then turned and headed in the direction of the training arena. Theyβre going on and on about some sort of game.
A game?
Anavlok claims that it is some form of training. Iβm hard-pressed to believe him.
Have they seen you yet?
Of course not.
Iβll be right there. Listen to the instructions, will you?
Such a monumental task for my enormous intellect.She rolled her eyes again. When she finally made it to the training arena, she heard the end of Anavlokβs instructions. βIβm here,β she breathed, jogging up to the group. βShioβs around here somewhere. Whoβs team am I on?β
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Post by lazy penguin on Aug 18, 2021 23:20:03 GMT -5
Hollis could barely contain his laughter when he saw how mad Alexiares seemed. If riling the other rider up was this easy, he'd have to do it more often. To his retort Hollis simply shrugged, "We all have our flaws. I'm glad you don't disagree with you being easy, though." He held his tongue though, when the others came and Anavlok spoke up.
Teams, that could mean- he could help the laugh that escaped when the older Knight announced he would be teaming with Alexiares. Well this will certainly be fun!
He listened as intently as he could while Anavlok explained the rules of the game- though he had to admit most flew right over his head. He figured he be able to pick up on it once they were in the skies.
He couldn't help but be a bit off-put by the way the twins and older rider spoke. It wasn't right- Hollis couldn't even imagine spending enough time around a person to be able to finish their sentences. "Your family's kinda strange," Hollis said, turning to his partner once the instructions were over. "I mean, if it was just you twins being all close and weird I guess I could forgive it, but how much time do you spend around Anavlok?" He wasn't expecting a real answer- he highly doubted Alex would even dignify him with a response, but there was no harm in showing a little humanity to the other rider.
"Any questions?" As the words exited the Dragon Knight's mouth a fiery presence made himself known in the back of Hollis' brain.
I have a question, Scoria said, his voice dull and unenthused. Just what did you rope us into?
Training session, apparently we're playing some made up game called Dragon Ball. Could be fun?
Sounds like a waste of time. What are the rules?
Hollis did his best to mentally fill in the Flame-Swallowing Dragon, watching as his burnt orange wings swooped into the clearing from the skies. Scoria certainly knew how to put on a show and Hollis couldn't help but wonder if the dragon had known there would be other riders on the grounds today.
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Post by kiwi cheesecake on Aug 19, 2021 1:16:37 GMT -5
 Peren Talvace β β‘β β‘β β‘β β‘β πΎππππππππ Hushabye lazy penguin inky ββΠΎΟ || Training FieldsGherkin was so intent on rushing towards food she didn't even notice herself nearly running over the new entrant to the hallway. Peren, however, was keenly aware of his dragon's ignorance, rushing forwards with an apologetic smile. "Ah, I'm sorry," he offered, casting a slight glare Gherkin's direction before settling his gaze on the girl before him. Names... they had met before, he remembered, but the girl's name was escaping him.
Luckily, she seemed to be in a rush as well. Training, huh? Peren looked down at his own clothes, hand reaching up to pull slightly at the fabric. Decidedly not a combat outfit like the girl was wearing. He was about to offer that as a temporary excuse, but then she continued explaining that many of the other riders were there. It sounded somewhat important. Probably something it would be more of a hassle to miss.
"Sure, I'll tag along," Peren said after a second, trying to ignore the intense glare from Gherkin he could feel burning into his skin. Waiting for the girl to lead, he fell into line behind her, motioning towards the dragon to follow without looking behind him. Just because he couldn't see, though, didn't mean he couldn't hear.
Peren. Food.
The incessant voice in his head. Peren sighed slightly, considering his reply. We can get food afterwards.
He felt Gherkin's hot breath on his back as she hissed out an exhale. I'm hungry now. You promised.
I did nothing of the sort. All I said was I'd make you some food. Not when. Peren paused for a second, before adding, Please? It's important that we at least try and make a good impression on people. And even if you don't want to train, I'd like to be prepared for what's ahead of us.
...Fine. But you're making me something good for all this hassle.
Peren fell back slightly, beginning to walk in line with Gherkin rather than in front of her, and gently placed his hand on her side. I promise I'll do that. Just as soon as the training is done. Thank you.
The rest of the walk to the training area went by surprisingly quickly, Peren keeping his thoughts occupied by trying to remember the mystery girl's name. She was another rider, that he was certain of- paired to the wind dragon. Unfortunately, he couldn't recall the dragon's name either. Oh well. Something to keep an ear open for during the training session, he supposed.
Looking around the clearing, Peren's knowledge was about fifty-fifty. He remembered Anavlok- one of the elder riders. The twins had similar names, and he could never keep the two straight. The dryad he had remembered seeing around only a few times before, but Peren vividly remembered his presence. Hollis. It was hard to forget. The woman with black hair was Leto- another incredibly powerful presence. Perhaps the two would get along well. And the other woman- Saena- was kind enough to reintroduce herself. That left only the dragons as a true mystery. And the girl who had brought him here.
As Peren listened to Anavlok's instructions, he suddenly noticed Gherkin pulling away from him. He half-turned towards the dragon, watching curiously as she made her way along the edge of the training clearing, poking and prodding at rocks with her snout and talons. What are you looking for? he asked.
A napping spot, Gherkin answered curtly, not even looking up from her investigation spot.
A nap? You just woke up! You're not going to try and play this training game at all?
No. Gherkin finally decided on a suitable spot, stretching her body out as she laid down and unfurling her wings to catch the early morning sunlight.
The game is called Dragon Ball, Peren pointed out to her, brow furrowing slightly. I think I might need a dragon for it.
Too bad. You dragged me out here, it's sunny out here, I am going to take a nap. Have fun training.
Peren thought about arguing further, but the dragon had already shut her eyes. Instead, he just gave a short sigh, looking up towards Anavlok. "Gherkin wants to sit this one out," he said aloud, offering a slight motion towards the relaxing lizard. "I can still participate on my own, right?"
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ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
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Post by ββΠΎΟ on Aug 21, 2021 1:33:52 GMT -5
LETO
Leto shifted her weight between the balls of her feet and her heels. She was anxious to get moving and found herself spacing out during some of the directions of how to play. She would rely on Aughan to remember the fine details. One of Letoβs many flaws was that she was a poor listener in general; anyone who had the pleasure of teaching her could attest to that. Her father used to make her run laps in the snow when she asked him to explain something more than once. He never succeeded in breaking her of the habit.
Of course she had never played dragon ball, but she was determined to be good at it regardless. She had a competitive streak that was equal parts blessing and curse. Every game played inevitably devolved into arguing or showboating when she had played them with her family. Thankfully she was also quick to forgive anyone who made the mistake of beating her.
Has he announced the teams? Aughan asked serenely.
Leto shrugged and glanced over at her dragon. Anavlok was still explaining the rules, but she tuned them out as she responded, No I donβt think so. Then she added cockily, Not that it matters. Sometimes she said things like this more to get a reaction out of Aughan than anything. While she was competitive, he was anything but, and he disliked any show of over-confidence. A smile tugged at the edges of her mouth as her dragon huffed in resignation.
βAny questions?β Avavlok was asking. The change in tone signaled that the game was about to begin and Leto shook her head in response.
βNope! No questions. Weβll learn as we play.β
Without needing to prompt him, Aughan dropped his shoulder for her to climb onto his back. She drew herself up into his saddle and leaned forward, prepared to take off as soon as they were given permission.
Trys asked about the teams and Leto awaited an answer, Stormy gaze casting down to Anavlok and the twins. Whoever she was partnered with, she hoped they were prepared to win.
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Post by Hushabye on Aug 21, 2021 1:57:13 GMT -5
[ There's a lot of handwaving in this one- I don't want to hold anyone up further so please pretend I've told you where to go r.r ]
-- Alexiares & Astraxares Diaviore + Anavlok Stainawarik + Vortigern
<><><><>
"Hm," Anavlok considers the woman with a cant of his head. "Which team? That's a good question..."
With their number being uneven, one team could have the advantage over the other. Placing her with the boys could make up for any distractions caused by disharmony, but giving her to the opposite team might force them to work harder. Anavlok briefly turns his attention to Alex, who just returned from the small building containing training equipment with his foci in hand.
Alexiares' time spent 'cooling off' during his errand was rendered null when Hollis greeted him with another direct address upon his return. Why is he making it a point to speak to him? Especially after his cheeky little dig at Alex's imagined status as an 'easy win'. That remark had been ignored, as Alexiares feels no need to prove himself to anyone- especially present company- but the comment about his family causes his eyebrow to twitch at the least. He gives the younger rider a mildly disgusted look, so Astraxares pipes up with a response instead.
"Most strange things can be blamed on our family curse~"
His younger brother interrupts with a hiss of censure. "Astra, we're leaving."
Anavlok reaches for the worn satchel containing his foci, but Alexiares slings it over his shoulder and stalks right past him. "Vortigern says you know where we're headed, we'll meet them there."
Astraxares gives those gathered an apologetic what-can-you-do shrug and moves to follow him but pauses. "Oh, Navi, don't forget to tell them about our incentive~"
"Right!" The Knight gives Peren an apologetic smile even as he waves away the twins, who are following Vortigern to the less occupied half of the field so that he has more room to extend his wings for flight. "I'm afraid that 'Dragon Ball' is contingent on dragons being willing to fly. However as Astra noted, we Do have prizes to offer as rewards. Ah, but I'm not sure she'd be interested in our food items..." He taps his chin in thought.
"Tarts, taffy, chocolate- dried meats, I'm not sure if there is sheep included in that...Perhaps one mutton pie but not a large one. We only have what Astra and I could comfortably carry, of course. I appreciate your willingness to join us, regardless~! If you would like, I can offer a solo training session in the mean time."
That doesn't exactly sound like an attractive offer, and Anavlok frowns in thought. "I would also not bar you from claiming a prize of your own, regardless of the game's outcome. Many of the 'rewards' are gifts I would have otherwise offered freely."
He tracked Leto's anxious movements from the corner of his eye as he spoke, lips quirking with amusement as he gave Vortigern the go-ahead to share the game's location with the other dragons.
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inky
I'm a free woman again! At least until the semester starts up :D
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Post by inky on Aug 24, 2021 1:01:40 GMT -5
Β»Saena & Ilaria
With lazy penguin & Hushabye & ββΠΎΟ & πΎππππππππ - Training Grounds - Early Morning
More people joined shortly after she had, Saena glanced at each one who'd come over wanting to play. Even more of a reason to play, they were going to win.
'Yeah if you listen to me' Her dragons voice echoed in her head and earned a glare from the young rider.
"You mean if you listen to me? I'm the brains here'
'Then we aren't going to win.'
'Oh yes we will. If we team up we can win.' It was then that she heard Anavlok state there would be not violence. Well that wasn't any fun and who was that preparing? No one. They'd be at war soon, peace wasn't something easily attainable during wartimes. She'd read and heard enough stories of the wars before to know there was not winning a war without some violence. It wasn't war without it. No violence meant a simple negotiation. But she guessed she didn't have to be violent to be sneaky, she was a thief too and her dragon was too. So they'd come up with something.
'Teams?' Both rider and dragon glanced toward the other. Why did they need a team, they were their own team. A slight frown began to form on Saena's face, though she guess it made sense they were going to be working with the others for a while now. The pair would have to get used to it somehow right? Not that either of them was going to like playing nice, they were just going to have to.
"I don't have any questions. I'm sure we will figure it out as we go. If not I guess we get a little burnt." Saena shrugged her shoulders before cracking her neck. Her dragon nudged her lightly as a prize was mentioned. "Actually yeah uh one question. Do the tarts have fruit? Particularly blueberries?" Those were the multi-colored dragons favorite and she'd do anything for those even work nicely with Saena and when the too actually worked together things went pretty smoothly.
Her eyes moved from each of the people and their dragons, now which person was she going be splitting her prize with. Of course she didn't want to share anything with anyone other than her dragon but team effort meant sharing the spoils. "Oh oh, also. Teams? Whos working with who." |
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Post by Κα΄α΄ΚΚα΄Κα΄α΄ Β» on Aug 25, 2021 10:26:04 GMT -5
A voice broke Cal out of her thoughts, and she looked up to see Sylvie walking towards her. Something about the woman seemed off - and it rubbed Cal the wrong way. She didn't like half-truths, and in that moment everything about Sylvie seemed like a half-truth.
Or maybe she was just too used to liars and fakes, and was seeing false kindness somewhere that it wasn't. She had always had a habit of seeing enemies where there were friends.
"Sure," she answered, and Fenrir rumbled in agreement. "Fen's been bored lately anyway, so it'll be good for him to get moving." A large head nudged her to the side and she laughed, leaning on him to stand up. It was easy to maneuver herself out of his coiling body now that she'd gotten so much practice in. Cal turned back to Sylvie and grinned as she waited for the older woman to direct her.
You don't trust the knights, I know. But perhaps what they are doing is working. Maybe you should try giving them the benefit of the doubt. Leave it to Fenrir to always be the voice of reason. She would have rolled her eyes if she wasn't still focused on the woman in front of her. Fine. Maybe she would try trusting the knights for now, even if it went against every fiber of her being. She would give them a chance. |
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ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
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Post by ββΠΎΟ on Aug 25, 2021 23:33:53 GMT -5
LETO
"The tarts can have any filling as long as they taste of victory," Leto quipped in response to Saena's query. She smiled her serpentine smile and mimed licking her fingertips.
You could stand to do a little less taunting before we play the game, Aughan told her telepathically. Now it'll be embarrassing if we lose.
When the topic shifted back to the subject of teams, she managed to remember something she'd heard earlier in the conversation. "Alex and Hollis versus me and Saena, right? Classic girls versus boys?" Her listening skills were so poor that sometimes things she heard would not register in her brain until much later. But at least she'd been listening at all. Clearly some of the others were still confused about Anavlok's instructions. That, of course, was assuming her delayed memory was serving her correctly.
Aughan dutifully marched over so that he was standing in front of one of the goals Anavlok had identified. Leto perched on his back, prepared to take off as soon as the game began. She planned to play on the offensive, charging for the ball as soon as it was in the air. But Aughan was a naturally defensive strategist, and it occurred to her in the knick of time that they should be on the same page.
Let's look to score right away, she told him silently. With so few players, it'll be a race to make the most points.
I'd rather protect the goal, but you're probably right, he conceded. Fine, but remember not to hold onto the ball too long. Saena should fly close so we can pass it to her.
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Post by πΎππππππππ on Aug 26, 2021 9:38:41 GMT -5
TRYS
Trys let her dark blue gaze dance across those whoβd gathered for the impromptu game β Alex, Anavlok, Hollis, Seana, and Leto, as well as Trys herself, Peren, and their respective dragons. Only Shio was missing, but Trys had the sense that he was nearby. Instinctively, she reached out for the bond, and was comforted to know it was still there, humming with each beat of her heart. Her attention was drawn as Gherkin, Perenβs Flame Dragon, lumbered towards a particularly sunny spot in the training arena and laid down, making herself comfortable β exactly like a giant house-cat. The corner of her mouth curled up into a soft smile of amusement. And, like a giant house-cat, it looked like Gherkin had decided that her presence wasnβt necessary for the game. She instead seemed to prefer sunbathing.
<Canβt blame her,> Shio murmured in the bond. It certainly sounds more interesting. Trys rolled her eyes at him, casting her gaze to the sky above. She thought she saw a shadow pass through the clouds that could have been Shio, but she wasnβt sure.
βGherkin wants to sit this one out,β Peren said. Trys cast him an amused look, before turning back to the rest of the gathering, watching as the teams formed. Two versus two, it seemed, which meant that Trys and Shio werenβt needed for this round. She couldnβt help the brief flicker of relief that flashed through her. She wasnβt much for combat; in fact, she was quite terrible at it. The only weapon sheβd managed to use rather well was a bow, and while she could hold her own in hand-to-hand combat, her style was more of a defensive maneuver, blocking and redirecting until her opponent tired out. She was far better suited to diplomacy β and so was Shio.
<Looks like we get to sit this one out as well,> she told her dragon. She felt his rumble of approval and glanced upwards, watching as he came in for a landing.
Shio approached the training arena like a star, streaking through the air in a red-gold-gray blur. At the last moment, just before he reached the top of the trees, he snapped open his massive wings, fanning them out to their full span. This motion caused him to drop out of the dive rapidly, swinging his tail downward and his head upward. He spread the feather crest on the back of his skull, and although he likely wouldβve thundered his arrival with a bugling roar, he remained silent, instead slamming to the ground just beside Trys with enough force that she felt the rumbling earth beneath her feet.
He kept his wings fanned for a moment, drawing out the dramatic effect, before he let out an indignant huff. He let the crest on his skull settle and he tucked his wings in, leaning forward to use his wings as arms, like all Wind Dragons did. While they were graceful in the air, Wind Dragons were a bitβ¦ less on the ground. The use of wing-arms made their gait a bit ungainly. Still, Shio managed to make the motion seem elegant as he moved towards a sunny spot, taking Gherkinβs lead.
βShio and I are happy to watch the first round,β Trys told Anavlok. She gave him a kind smile. βDonβt worry about us.β She glanced at Peren. βOr Peren and I can practice some combat moves on our own.β She shrugged. βEither is fine with me.β
<I much prefer to watch this supposed game,> Shio rumbled.
<So would I, but weβre trying to make a good impression here, Shio.>
<Youβre terrible at combat.> Trys shot him a frown and sighed.
<Yeah, I know.>
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Post by Hushabye on Aug 26, 2021 20:15:35 GMT -5
-- Alexiares & Astraxares Diaviore + Anavlok Stainawarik + Vortigern
<><>
"Yes, I bought blueberries with her in mind~" His words end on a laugh at Leto's quip, "How true! I look forward to seeing you two in action~"
"It would seem that we are taking the classic route, with Trys and Peren sitting out the 'first round'." The knight acknowledges them both with a nod and smile.
Anavlok laced his fingers behind his back, slipping into 'instructor mode' as he responded to the near simultaneous addresses from the gathered riders and their dragons. Vortigern's odd shadow passed overhead, giving the approaching wind dragon a wide berth as he made his entrance in typical dramatic fashion. It's always amusing to see them display their different brands of vanity. He can almost hear Vortigern's derisive scoff as the bone dragon's spiked tail disappears above the trees.
"Now then, let's meet at the clearing."
<><><><>
Vortigern fully extends his wings to glide on a thermal, steady enough that the man precariously balanced on the back of his saddle can lean back comfortably. Alexiares faces forward, attention on the round object that he partially removes from its satchel.
It's the size of a globe, textured like glass and engraved with various magic sigils. It must not be activated as the temperature is still lukewarm.
Normally the dragon would be interested in whatever his rider seeks to share, engaging each other in the latest problem or magical item to study. At present, however, his mind is on an oddity that doesn't appear to have a physical form.
That isn't the first time your brother mentioned a 'family curse'. Are you ever going to explain that?
Alexiares stiffens and irritation likewise makes his words coarse. "It's an asinine superstition that originated from the weaker members of the family. Astra shouldn't lend it any credence." His tone rises toward the end, pointed just as the elbow he jabs into his brother's side.
"Stop spreading that around, idiot. What do you think that will accomplish?"
Astraxares merely straightens with an, "Ah, we've arrived. Let's be the yellow team~"
Though he wants to press the matter, Alex reluctantly turns his attention toward the trees below, easily catching sight of vibrant blue and yellow ribbons tied to the tallest at opposite ends of a clearing. They aren't directly across from each other, but the distance is fair and the height makes it easy to determine which tangle of branches serve as the 'goals'.
Vortigern obligingly swoops down to gracefully land at the roots facing Aughan and Leto. He curls his tail against his side with Alexiares simultaneously extending a hand to help his brother down. The flight wasn't long, but Astra touches down on wobbly legs, amused at his own clumsiness. "I need to get used to that~ Ever considered adding a few pillows~?"
And turn me into a glorified flying sofa? The dragon protests with a huff, bumping Astra with his nose and inspiring a laugh.
Anavlok arrives not long after, somehow moving swiftly without seeming to at all. He approaches the twins to recover his foci and Astraxares trails him a few feet away, though not before giving his twin an enthusiastic wave. "Do your best, baby brother~!"
Alex gives him one of his patented disgusted looks.
Once he's reached the center of the clearing, Anavlok appears to unlock the foci and holds it poised on the fingers of one hand. After ensuring that everyone is in place, his other hand moves to the pouch on his hip and pulls water from it in a surge, using it to propel the 'ball' into the air in a spray of droplets. "Begin!"
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inky
I'm a free woman again! At least until the semester starts up :D
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Post by inky on Aug 28, 2021 21:59:46 GMT -5
(sorry it is short!!! I was going to let Leto or whoever gets it first get it xD)
Β»Saena & Ilaria
With lazy penguin & Hushabye & ββΠΎΟ & πΎππππππππ - Training Grounds - Early Morning
Her eyes turned to Leto a small breath of a laugh escaping the girl, victory did sound like a good flavor. Though an interesting time it was going to be trying to win with the armored dragon. Ilaria was defiantly faster than Aughan but he was by far more sturdy. An odd pairing to say the least. Though it would seem that the other team had the same balance a larger heavier dragon and a slightly more agile dragon. But she and her dragon had been thieving for years so, she was going to assume they had the upper hand.
Saena followed quickly after the rest of the people playing, hoping on Ilaria with ease and a little bit of help from the dragon. The two landed beside their teammate. Her eyes locked on the object of the game the rather pretty ball.
'As long as I get those blueberries we won't have any problems.' It had been a while since the Mirror dragon had any blueberries and her rider knew that blueberries were more than enough to get her to listen and go with any plan Saena had. Her eyes moved to Leto who was placed near the goal, it looked as though the two were going to go for the ball first. That was fine it would give her a chance to plan a bit with her dragon.
'You ready to try out that sideways flying thing?'
'The one where I hide you from sight? Ugh, I guess' With that, the dragon's scales began shifting to match their surroundings. Trees were easy to reflect, hard to see imperfections when trees were naturally full of them. This plan entailed that her dragon fly so that her scales reflecting were always facing their opponent. They'd never actually done it with people around or any time with people on all sides but they were going to try it now. For now, it was up to Saena to hold on. While motionless she could be hiding behind the sharp scales of Ilaria's tail, but as long as they were flying there was no wrapping around her without getting some nice cuts.
"Hey, Leto right?" She called, nodding her head to the girl, "I'll stick close. If ya know don't see me know that I can probably see you." The girl grinned. "You boys ready to lose?" Saena was grinning, with all the bragging the two girls were doing they'd better win. Though she wasn't allowed to use any magic cause of rules but that didn't mean she couldn't use the camouflaging nature of her dragon to steal the ball from people. After all, Ilaria was smaller and pretty quiet compared to all the other dragons and could easily go unnoticed if they didn't pay attention. Although the rider was a different story, they'd been working out ways to hide her. She hadn't gathered enough scales to make her own armor that reflected yet, so that would have to wait till Ilaria's next shed. She followed the orb as it shot into the air, pressing herself down against Ilaria preparing for the start of the game.
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Post by kiwi cheesecake on Aug 29, 2021 0:56:07 GMT -5
Peren Talvace β β‘β β‘β β‘β β‘β @dragonball group; πΎππππππππ || Training FieldsGherkin barely glanced up at Anavlok's offer, only returning a slight flick of her tail.
Come on, please? Peren insisted, looking back and forth from the group to his dragon. They won't have even teams unless we join. And food- you like food, right?
Stale pies, I'm sure, the dragoness huffed. Or ruined. Things don't last when they're flown in from a city. And anyway, who wouldn't mind sitting out in this weather? She stretched her wings further, settling down into her spot. It's warm.
Peren bit back another retort, stifling his protests with a small sigh. "We'll practice on our own, then," he said aloud, offering Anavlok an apologetic shrug.
I'm napping.
"Maybe if there's another game after this one we can join in then."
I will not be playing games today.
"It definitely sounds like fun."
No it does not.
Peren once again forced himself to stop, instead moving to stand next to Gherkin at the edge of the training area. He could feel the heat emanating from her scales, no doubt amplified by the warmth of the sunshine. The dragon's eyes were already shut, the gentle rhythm of her breathing back into the lull of sleep. That was fast. Peren rolled his eyes slightly, crossing his arms and watching the others.
Sure enough, someone else did have to sit out. The girl who he had walked here with- Trys. Thank you, Anavlok, for using names. He'd have to remember it this time. Trys didn't seem too upset, though. Hopefully there were no hard feelings. Gherkin could certainly be abrasive. Peren just hoped she didn't end up burning all his bridges among the other riders.
Trys's dragon just arrived as well, with a grand flourish. Hopefully he wouldn't be too upset about not being to play either, though from the looks of it, he was more concerned with making an entrance. Not that Peren could blame him. He took a step towards the pair, addressing them aloud.
"I apologize that we stopped you from playing this round," Peren said, offering a slight smile to Trys. "Gherkin can be a bit... stubborn." Peren barely had time to dodge Gherkin's tail as it came whipping towards his head, nearly falling to the ground anyway in the process. Shooting a glance towards the dragon, he caught a smirk crossing her face, one eye slightly cracked open as her tail slowly wrapping back around her.
I thought you were asleep?
Watch your tongue.
Slowly rising back to his feet, Peren made sure to keep Gherkin in his periphery, just in case she tried something else. He took another step away too, just for good measure. "As I'm sure you can see," he added slowly. "Though I'm certainly willing to train with you if you so wish! Or we could simply watch the game."
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Post by Pearl on Aug 29, 2021 8:12:30 GMT -5
(Just posting to say I'm still alive xD)
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Post by kiwi cheesecake on Aug 29, 2021 22:30:28 GMT -5
((Heya Pearl ~ Once I finish Jasper up I can totally throw him at Oren if you still need a partner!))
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Post by Pearl on Aug 30, 2021 0:58:03 GMT -5
(Okay. Thanks)
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